U.S. patent number 10,684,494 [Application Number 16/600,056] was granted by the patent office on 2020-06-16 for fabrication of see-through near eye optical module and ophthalmic lens.
This patent grant is currently assigned to NewSight Reality, Inc.. The grantee listed for this patent is NewSight Reality, Inc.. Invention is credited to Ronald Blum, Philip Nathan Garfinkle.
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United States Patent |
10,684,494 |
Blum , et al. |
June 16, 2020 |
Fabrication of see-through near eye optical module and ophthalmic
lens
Abstract
The present invention is directed to a see-through near eye
optical module that in most cases is fabricated as a standalone
unit. The see-through near eye optical module is in certain
embodiments then placed in optical communication and alignment with
an eyewear lens having appropriate optical power such that when a
wearer thereof looks through the see-through near eye optical
module he or she can see a real world image and virtual image
clearly. In other embodiments the appropriate optical power is
provided in the rear section of the see-through near eye optical
module. Thus, the combination of both the see-through near eye
optical module and the appropriate optical power provides the
wearer with a clear augmented reality or mixed reality experience.
The placement can be by way of positioning within an open notch,
hole, groove, recess, or other section of an eyewear lens.
Inventors: |
Blum; Ronald (Roanoke, VA),
Garfinkle; Philip Nathan (Jacksonville Beach, FL) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NewSight Reality, Inc. |
Roanoke |
VA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
NewSight Reality, Inc.
(Roanoke, VA)
|
Family
ID: |
69884644 |
Appl.
No.: |
16/600,056 |
Filed: |
October 11, 2019 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20200096790 A1 |
Mar 26, 2020 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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16449395 |
Jun 22, 2019 |
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16289623 |
Feb 28, 2019 |
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16008707 |
Jun 14, 2018 |
10466487 |
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15994595 |
May 31, 2018 |
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62530638 |
Jul 10, 2017 |
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62648371 |
Mar 26, 2018 |
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62638789 |
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62626660 |
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62624201 |
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62619752 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06T
19/006 (20130101); G02C 7/06 (20130101); G02C
7/024 (20130101); G02B 27/0172 (20130101); G02B
2027/014 (20130101); G02B 2027/0178 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
G09G
5/00 (20060101); G06T 19/00 (20110101); G02C
7/06 (20060101); G02B 27/01 (20060101) |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
Other References
PCT Search Report and Written Opinion in PCT/US2019/055735 (10
pages), dated Feb. 6, 2020. cited by applicant.
|
Primary Examiner: Tseng; Charles
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Woods Rogers PLC Evans; Nathan
A.
Parent Case Text
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application is a continuation-in-part and relies on the
disclosures of and claims priority to and the benefit of the filing
date of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/449,395 filed Jun. 22,
2019, which claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No.
16/289,623 filed Feb. 28, 2019, which claims priority to U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 16/008,707 filed Jun. 14, 2018, which
claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 15/994,595 filed May
31, 2018, as well as the following U.S. Provisional Patent
Applications, with filing dates and titles, the disclosures of
which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their
entireties.
62/694,222 filed on Jul. 5, 2018: Optimizing Micro-Lens Array for
use with TOLED for Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality
62/700,621 filed on Jul. 19, 2018: LC Switchable See-Through TOLED
Optical Combiner for Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality
62/700,632 filed on Jul. 19, 2018: Improved See-Through TOLED
Optical Combiner for Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality
62/703,909 filed on Jul. 27, 2018: Near Eye See-Through Display
Optical Combiner for Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality
62/703,911 filed on Jul. 27, 2018: LC Switchable Near Eye
See-Through Display Combiner for Augmented Reality or Mixed
Reality
62/711,669 filed on Jul. 30, 2018: Near Eye See-Through Display
Optical Combiner Comprising LC Switchable Lensing System for
Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality
62/717,424 filed on Aug. 10, 2018: Near Eye See-Through Display
Optical Combiner for Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality and HMD
62/720,113 filed on Aug. 20, 2018: Sparsely Populated Near Eye
Display Optical Combiner and Static Micro-Optic Array for AR and
MR
62/720,116 filed on Aug. 21, 2018: Sparsely Populated Near Eye
Display Optical Combiner for AR and MR
62/728,251 filed on Sep. 7, 2018: Figures For Eyewear Comprising a
See-Through Eye Display Optical Combiner
62/732,039 filed on Sep. 17, 2018: Eyewear Comprising a Dynamic
See-Through Near Eye Display Optical Combiner
62/732,138 filed on Sep. 17, 2018: Binocular See-Through Near Eye
Display Optical Combiner
62/739,904 filed on Oct. 2, 2018: See-Through Near Eye Display
Optical Combiner Module and Attachment Mean
62/739,907 filed on Oct. 2, 2018: Dynamic See-Through Near Eye
Display Optical Combiner Module and Attachment Mean
62/752,739 filed on Oct. 30, 2018: Photonic Optical Combiner
Module
62/753,583 filed on Oct. 31, 2018: Improved Photonic Optical
Combiner Module
62/754,929 filed on Nov. 2, 2018: Further Improved Photonic Optical
Combiner Module
62/755,626 filed on Nov. 5, 2018: Near Eye Display See Through
Optical Combiner
62/755,630 filed on Nov. 5, 2018: Static See Through Near Eye
Display Optical Combiner
62/756,528 filed on Nov. 6, 2018: Detachable Attachable Two Section
Frame Front for XR
62/756,542 filed on Nov. 6, 2018: Spectacle Lens in Optical
Communication with See-Through Near Eye Display Optical
Combiner
62/769,883 filed on Nov. 20, 2018: Enhanced Near Eye Display
Optical Combiner Module
62/770,210 filed on Nov. 21, 2018: Further Enhanced Near Eye
Display Optical Combiner Module
62/771,204 filed on Nov. 26, 2018: Adjustable Virtual Image Near
Eye Display Optical Combiner Module
62/774,362 filed on Dec. 3, 2018: Integrated Lens with NSR Optical
Combiner
62/775,945 filed on Dec. 6, 2018: See-Through Near Eye Display
Optical Combiner Module With Front Light Blocker
62/778,960 filed on Dec. 13, 2018: See-Through Near Eye Display
Having Opaque Pixel Patches
62/778,972 filed on Dec. 13, 2018: Improved See-Through Near Eye
Display Optical Combiner Module With Front Light Blocker
62/780,391 filed on Dec. 17, 2018: See-Through Modulated Near Eye
Display With Light Emission Away From The Eye of a Wearer Reduced
or Blocked
62/780,396 filed on Dec. 17, 2018: Modulated MLA and/or Near Eye
Display Having Light Emission Away From The Eye of a Wearer Reduced
or Blocked
62/783,596 filed on Dec. 21, 2018: Modulated MLA and/or Near Eye
Display With Light Emission Away From Eye of User
62/783,603 filed on Dec. 21, 2018: Improved Modulated MLA and/or
Near Eye Display With Light Emission Away From Eye of User
62/785,284 filed on Dec. 27, 2018: Advanced See-Through Modulated
Near Eye Display With Outward Light Emission Reduced or Blocked
62/787,834 filed on Jan. 3, 2018: Advanced Integrated Lens with NSR
Optical Combiner
62/788,275 filed on Jan. 4, 2019: Advanced See-Through Near Eye
Display Optical Combiner
62/788,993 filed on Jan. 7, 2019: Fabricating an Integrated Lens
with See-Through Near Eye Display Optical Combiner
62/788,995 filed on Jan. 7, 2019: Further Advanced See-Through Near
Eye Display Optical Combiner
62/790,514 filed on Jan. 10, 2019: Further, Further Advanced
See-Through Near Eye Display Optical Combiner
62/790,516 filed on Jan. 10, 2019: Advanced, Advanced See-Through
Near Eye Display Optical Combiner
62/793,166 filed on Jan. 16, 2019: Near Eye Display See-Through
Module for XR
62/794,779 filed on Jan. 21, 2019: Near Eye Module Invention
Summary
62/796,388 filed on Jan. 24, 2019: Transparent Near Eye Display
Invention Summary
62/796,410 filed on Jan. 24, 2019: Transparent Near Eye Module
Summary
62/830,645 filed on Apr. 8, 2019: Enhancement of Virtual Image
62/847,427 filed May 14, 2019: Enhancing the AR Image
62/848,636 filed May 16, 2019: Further Enhanced AR Image
The present application also relies on the disclosures of and
claims priority to and the benefit of the filing dates of U.S.
Patent Application Nos 62/756,528 filed Nov. 6, 2018, 62/756,542
filed Nov. 6, 2018, 62/788,993 filed Jan. 7, 2019, and
international application no. PCT/US2019/055735 filed Oct. 10,
2019. The present application is further related to U.S.
Application Nos. 62/717,424 filed Aug. 10, 2018, 62/720,113 filed
Aug. 20, 2018, 62/728,251 filed Sep. 7, 2018, and 62/732,138 filed
Sep. 17, 2018. The disclosures of each of these applications is
incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.
Claims
The invention claimed is:
1. An Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system comprising an
ophthalmic lens in optical communication with a see-through near
eye optical module, wherein the see-through near eye optical module
comprises a see-through near eye display and a micro-lens array,
wherein a portion of a back side of the see-through near eye
optical module is in front of a portion of the ophthalmic lens,
wherein a floor or bottom portion of the ophthalmic lens that is
closest to the back side of the see-through near eye optical module
is curved or shaped within 20% of a base curve of a front surface
of the ophthalmic lens to which the see-through near eye optical
module has been positioned or has replaced, and wherein a surface
area of the back side of the see-through near eye optical module is
smaller compared to a surface area of a back side of the ophthalmic
lens.
2. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein a portion of the see-through near eye optical module is
embedded within or attached to the ophthalmic lens.
3. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein a portion of the see-through near eye optical module is
attached to the front surface of the ophthalmic lens.
4. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein a portion of the see-through near eye optical module is
located within a front portion of the ophthalmic lens.
5. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein the ophthalmic lens has optical power.
6. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein the ophthalmic lens is devoid of optical power.
7. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein the see-through near eye optical module is curved within
10% of the base curve of the front surface of the ophthalmic
lens.
8. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein an area of the ophthalmic lens located behind the
see-through near eye optical module embedded within the ophthalmic
lens comprises a groove or recess.
9. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system according to claim
1, wherein a measured optical power of the see-through near eye
optical module includes no optical power or includes optical
power.
10. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system according to
claim 1, wherein the see-through near eye optical module further
comprises a blue light filter.
11. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein the see-through near eye optical module is completely,
hermetically, or partially sealed.
12. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 1,
wherein the ophthalmic lens comprises a recess or groove, wherein a
bottom of the recess or groove comprises a low index material, and
wherein the see-through near eye optical module is positioned in
the recess or groove.
13. An Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system comprising an
ophthalmic lens in optical communication with a see-through near
eye optical module, wherein the see-through near eye optical module
comprises a see-through near eye display and a see-through near eye
micro-lens array, wherein an overall optical power measured through
the see-through near eye optical module and the ophthalmic lens
which is located behind the see-through near eye optical module is
within 10% of a same optical power as a distance portion of the
ophthalmic lens.
14. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 13,
wherein all or a portion of the see-through near eye optical module
is embedded within or attached to the ophthalmic lens.
15. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 13,
wherein all or a portion of the see-through near eye optical module
is attached to a front surface of the ophthalmic lens.
16. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 13,
wherein all or a portion of the see-through near eye optical module
is located in front of the ophthalmic lens.
17. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 13,
wherein the ophthalmic lens has optical power.
18. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 13,
wherein the ophthalmic lens is devoid of optical power.
19. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 13,
wherein the ophthalmic lens has a base curve of a front
surface.
20. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 13,
wherein the see-through near eye optical module is curved within
10% of a base curve of a front surface of the ophthalmic lens.
21. An Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system comprising an
ophthalmic lens in optical communication with a see-through near
eye optical module, wherein the see-through near eye optical module
comprises a see-through near eye display and a see-through near eye
micro-lens array, wherein an optical power measured through the
see-through near eye optical module and the ophthalmic lens which
is located behind the see-through near eye optical module is within
20% of a same optical power as measured through the ophthalmic lens
prior to any modification of the ophthalmic lens for attaching the
see-through near eye optical module.
22. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 21,
wherein a portion of the see-through near eye optical module is
embedded within or attached to the ophthalmic lens.
23. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 21,
wherein a portion of the see-through near eye optical module is
attached to a front surface of the ophthalmic lens.
24. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 21,
wherein a portion of the see-through near eye optical module is
located in front of the ophthalmic lens.
25. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 21,
wherein the ophthalmic lens has optical power.
26. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 21,
wherein the ophthalmic lens is devoid of optical power.
27. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 21,
wherein the ophthalmic lens has a base curve of a front
surface.
28. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 21,
wherein the see-through near eye optical module is curved within
10% of a base curve of a front surface of the ophthalmic lens.
29. The Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality system of claim 21,
wherein an area of the ophthalmic lens located behind the
see-through near eye optical module embedded within the ophthalmic
lens comprises a groove or recess.
Description
BACKGROUND
Field of the Invention
The present invention is directed to a see-through near eye optical
module that in most cases is fabricated as a standalone unit. The
see-through near eye optical module is in certain embodiments then
placed in optical communication and alignment with an eyewear lens
having appropriate optical power such that when a wearer thereof
looks through the see-through near eye optical module he or she can
see a real world image and virtual image clearly. In other
embodiments the appropriate optical power is provided in the rear
section of the see-through near eye optical module. Thus, the
combination of both the see-through near eye optical module and the
appropriate optical power provides the wearer with a clear
augmented reality or mixed reality experience. The placement can be
by way of positioning within an open notch, hole, groove, recess,
and/or section of an eyewear lens.
Description of Related Art
Today's augmented and/or mixed reality systems in most cases have a
large form factor and are clunky, heavy, power hungry and
expensive. For these systems to have an increased level of adoption
a major transformational technology change or innovation is needed.
In addition, it is important that any such innovation can be easily
adapted to current established eyewear and ophthalmic lens
manufacturing and distribution. The innovation disclosed herein
teaches such a transformational breakthrough for the AR (augmented
reality) & MR (mixed reality) industries.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Provided in embodiments of the present invention are various
methods of combining optically a see-through near eye optical
module with the appropriate optical power lens or lens system such
that the wearer thereof can see a real world image and virtual
image clearly while experiencing augmented reality or mixed
reality. The augmented reality or mixed reality system can, in
aspects, provide an ophthalmic lens in optical communication with a
see-through near eye optical module, wherein the see-through near
eye optical module comprises a see-through near eye display and a
see-through near eye micro-lens array, wherein the optical power
measured through the see-through near eye optical module and the
eyewear lens section which is located directly behind the
see-through near eye optical module is within 20% of the same
optical power as if it was measured through the ophthalmic lens
prior to any modification of the ophthalmic lens for attaching the
see-through near eye optical module. The augmented reality or mixed
reality system may comprise an ophthalmic lens in optical
communication with a see-through near eye optical module, wherein
the see-through near eye optical module comprises a see-through
near eye display and a see-through near eye micro-lens array,
wherein the overall optical power measured through the see-through
near eye optical module and the ophthalmic lens section which is
located directly behind the see-through near eye optical module is
within 10% of the same optical power as the distance portion of the
ophthalmic lens. The augmented reality or mixed reality system may
comprise an ophthalmic lens in optical communication with a
see-through near eye optical module, wherein the see-through near
eye optical module comprises a see-through near eye display and a
micro-lens array, wherein a portion of the back side of see-through
near eye optical module is in front of a portion of the ophthalmic
lens, wherein a floor or bottom portion of the ophthalmic lens that
is closest to the back side of see-through near eye optical module
is curved or shaped within 20% of the front surface base curve of
the ophthalmic lens to which the see-through near eye optical
module has been positioned or has replaced, and wherein the
backside size of the see-through near eye optical module is smaller
in surface area compared to the surface area of the back side
surface area of the ophthalmic lens.
Such a see-through near eye display can be an electronic display
that permits seeing through and/or in between the pixels of such a
display. When seeing through the pixels the pixels are either
semi-transparent or transparent. When seeing between the pixels the
pixels can be either opaque, semi-transparent or transparent. By
way of example only, one or more of the following pixel light
sources or light emitters can be utilized with or as the
see-through near eye display: OLED, micro-LED or micro-iLED,
Flexible micro-iLED or Flexible micro-LED, TOLED (transparent
organic light emitting diode), PHOLED (Phosphorescent OLED), FOLED
(Flexible OLED), WOLED (white OLED), ELD (electroluminescent
display), TFEL (thin film electroluminescent), TDEL (thick
dielectric electroluminescent), or a combination of any of the
above.
In certain embodiments, the see-through near eye display can
comprise transparent pixels and/or semi-transparent pixels having
light blocked on the side furthest away from the eye of a wearer
and having transparent or semi-transparent sections of the display
between the pixels and/or pixel patches that will allow the real
world light rays to pass through to the eye(s) of the wearer. In
these cases, while the pixels or pixel patches may be transparent
or semi-transparent, most light from the real world will not pass
through the pixel or pixel patches, but rather pass between the
pixels or pixel patches due to the light block located on the front
side of the pixel or pixel patch, or in front of the pixel or pixel
patch, furthest away from the eye of the wearer. In other cases,
the pixels can be opaque. In such cases, the real-world image is
seen by light rays passing between the opaque pixels. In still
other cases the pixels can be transparent or semi-transparent with
no light block. In these cases, the real-world image can be seen
through the pixels. In embodiments disclosed herein the see-through
near eye display permits the wearer thereof to see a real-world
image when looking through the see-through near eye display whether
the display comprises transparent or semi-transparent pixels having
a light block, transparent or semi-transparent pixels without a
light block, or opaque pixels. In certain cases, the pixels or
pixel patches are sparsely populated. In other cases, the pixels or
pixel patches are tightly populated. The see-through near eye
display can be transparent or semi-transparent. The see-through
near eye display can be made of a passive matrix or an active
matrix.
A micro-lens array as used herein can be a static micro-lens array
(whereby the micro-lenses of the micro-lens array are fixed in
optical power) or that of an electronic switchable micro-lens array
(whereby the micro-lenses of the micro-lens array are switchable or
tunable between two different optical powers and whereby one of
which can be no optical power). The following are examples only of
micro-lenses of such a micro-lens array. The micro-lenses can be
one or more of: plano-convex, biconvex, aspheric, achromatic,
diffractive, refractive, phase wrapped Fresnel lens, Fresnel Lens,
a combination of plus and minus lenses forming a Gabor Superlens, a
combination of a lens and a prism, a gradient index (GRIN) lens,
liquid crystal lens, a patterned electrode lens, a polymer liquid
crystal lens, or any combination of the above. In most, but not all
cases, the MLA (micro-lens array) is antireflection coated on one
or both sides. The term lenslet(s) or lensing when used herein is
meant to be associated generally with a micro-lens or micro-lens
array.
A see-through near eye optical module as taught herein consists of
a see-through near eye display that is in optical alignment/optical
communication with a distance separated micro-lens array. In
certain embodiments, the see-through near eye optical module can be
a standalone see-through near eye optical module that can be
fabricated prior to being incorporated with an eyewear lens. In
other embodiments, the see-through near eye optical module can be
fabricated in situ with the eyewear lens. The space separation of
the see-through near eye display and the micro-lens array can be
filled with a material or a gas. In a preferred embodiment, the
space separation is filled with a material. The see-through near
eye optical module can be sealed. The sealing can be hermetically
sealed. By sealing it is meant that the seal incorporates all the
outside area of the see-through near eye optical module. The
see-through near eye display is capable of passing/transmitting
real world light rays through it to form a real image as perceived
by the eye of a user, while also producing or giving off light rays
from the see-through near eye display that after passing through a
micro-lens array form a virtual image thus allowing a user or
wearer to see both a virtual image and a real image; thus
perceiving Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality. The lensing array
can be that of a micro-lens array or a micro-optic array. The terms
patches of pixels and tiles of pixels have the same meaning for one
another. As used herein, a see-through near eye optical module can
also mean or be a see-through near eye optical combiner.
For clarity, the front of the see-through near eye display is the
portion furthest away from the eye of the wearer/user. The back of
the see-through near eye display is the portion closest to the eye
of the wearer/user. Thus, by way of example only, if the
see-through near eye display is embedded or attached to the front
side of an eye glass lens, the front of the see-through near eye
display would be on the side of the eyeglass lens farthest away
from the eye of the wearer/user and the back of the see-through
near eye display would be closest to the eye of the wearer/user,
similar to that of the eyeglass lens (where the front is farther
away from the eye of a wearer and the back is closest to the eye of
a wearer).
For clarity, the front surface of the see-though near eye optical
module is the portion furthest away from the eye of the
wearer/user. The back surface of the see-through near eye optical
module is the portion closest to the eye of the wearer/user. When
the see-through near eye display optical module is embedded into
the front surface of an eyeglass lens, the front surface of the
see-through near eye display optical module can be conformal to the
front surface of the eyeglass lens to which it is embedded. In
certain other embodiments, the front surface of the see-through
near eye display optical module can be slightly raised to the front
surface of the eyeglass lens in which it is embedded, and in
certain other embodiments the front surface of the see-through near
eye display optical module can be located slightly lower within the
eyeglass lens than the front surface of the eyeglass lens. In still
other embodiments, the see-through near eye optical module can have
its backside located adjacent to the front surface of the eyeglass
lens. The front side surface of the see-through near eye optical
module can be coated with, by way of example only, a scratch
resistant coating, UV coating, anti-reflection coating or any
combination thereof. The backside surface of the see-through near
eye optical module can be, by way of example, coated with a blue
light filter, a selective high energy blue light filter, a UV
filter, or any combination thereof.
Further, in other embodiments, the see-through near eye optical
module can be entirely located in front of and distance separated
from the front surface of the eyeglass lens. Finally, in certain
other embodiments, the see-through near eye optical module can
comprise a lens (having ophthalmic power) located behind the
backside of the see-through near eye optical module. In most cases,
in such an embodiment, this lens would be part of the see-through
near eye optical module. In this particular case, the see-through
near eye optical module may be attached to the eyewear frame or
eyewear lens in such a manner to avoid being in optical
communication with the eyeglass lens. By this it is meant that
light rays coming from the see-through near eye optical module to
the eye of the wearer would only go once through an ophthalmic lens
having optical power and then to the eye of the wearer.
The see-through near eye optical module can be of any size. The
see-through near eye optical module can be as small as 6 mm
wide.times.6 mm high or as large as the eyewear lens. In most, but
not all cases, the see-through near eye optical module has a top or
bottom surface area less than the overall size of a side of the
eyewear lens, meaning it is smaller or comprises less surface area
than the surface area of a side of an eyewear lens in which is in
optical communication and alignment. The see-through near eye
optical module can be of any shape. In certain cases, it is
rectangular. In other cases, it can be round. In still other cases,
it can be square. In certain cases, the horizontal measurement is
greater than the vertical measurement. In certain cases, the
vertical measurement is greater than the horizontal measurement.
Depending upon the size of the see-through near eye optical module,
an eye tracker can be utilized. In most cases, an eye tracker can
be utilized with a see-through near eye optical module that is
greater than 12 mm in one direction. In certain embodiments, a
see-through near eye display can be connected to a camera
associated with the AR/MR system. In certain embodiments, a
see-through near eye display can be connected to multiple cameras
associated with the AR/MR system. The see-through near eye optical
module can be connected (wirelessly or wired) to a computing
device. Such a computing device can be, by way of example only, a
cell phone, laptop computer, tablet computer, desktop computer,
server, and/or cell tower. The see-through near eye optical module
can be connected (wirelessly or wired) to a Computer Processing
Unit. The see-through near eye optical module can be connected
(wirelessly or wired) to the Internet.
The see-through near eye optical module in most, but not all, cases
is located such that when a wearer thereof is looking straight
ahead with normal gaze the line of sight of the eye of the wearer
does not look through the see-through near eye optical module. In
most, but not all, cases the see-through near eye optical module is
located peripheral to the line of sight of the wearer when the
wearer is looking straight ahead with normal gaze while wearing a
see-through near eye optical module. Thus, in most cases (but not
all) when the wearer wishes to see AR or MR the wearer moves his or
her eye or head such to see through the see-through near eye
optical module. Such movement can be, by way of example only, a
head tilt or head movement. In certain embodiments, the see-through
near eye optical module is placed directly in front of the eye of
the wearer. When this occurs the line of sight of the wearer looks
through the see-through near eye optical module when the wearer is
looking straight ahead with normal gaze at far.
The see-through near eye optical module in most cases (but not all)
is smaller in front surface area than that of the eyewear lens in
which it is in alignment/optical communication with. The
see-through near eye optical module in most cases (but not all) is
smaller in back surface area than that of the eyewear lens in which
it is in alignment/optical communication with. This is true in most
but not all cases, when the see-through near eye optical module is
attached to the front surface of an eyewear lens. This is true when
the see-through near eye optical module is attached to eyewear and
located in front of the front surface of an eyewear lens. This is
true when the see-through near eye optical module is embedded
within the front surface of an eyewear lens. This is true when the
see-through near eye optical module is incorporated within an
eyewear lens.
For clarity (as used herein) eyewear as used herein can be that of
any eyewear or headwear that fits around and/or in front of the
eyes of a wearer. By way of example only, this includes goggles,
face shield, athletic glasses, dress glasses, sports glasses,
shooting glasses, space goggles, welding goggles, swimming goggles,
industrial glasses, safety glasses, prescription glasses, normal
glasses, spectacles, and any other type of eyewear or glasses. For
clarity, as used herein, an ophthalmic lens is an eyewear lens. For
clarity, an eyewear lens can be a spectacle lens. For clarity, as
used herein, an ophthalmic lens may be an eyeglass lens. For
clarity, an eyeglass lens may be an eyewear lens. An ophthalmic
lens, spectacle lens, eyeglass lens, eyewear lens, or other lens
can comprise optical power. An ophthalmic lens, spectacle lens,
eyeglass lens, eyewear lens, or other lens can comprise no optical
power. An ophthalmic lens, spectacle lens eyeglass lens, eyewear
lens, or other lens can be devoid of optical power. An eyewear
lens, eyeglass lens, ophthalmic lens, or spectacle lens as used
herein are all meant to mean generally the same thing. An
ophthalmic lens, spectacle lens, eyeglass lens, eyewear lens, or
other lens can be used with any style or type of eyewear including
headwear that comprises an eyewear component. The front curvature
of an ophthalmic lens can be that of the appropriate front base
curve for a given lens optical power commonly known in the art. For
clarity, the words optical communication used herein is that of
being optically aligned so that light rays will pass through.
The term self-contained as used herein is generally meant to be
that of an optical device or optical system that can be a
stand-alone system that with the application of enabling power,
would function. Such a self-contained system can be fabricated
separately and sold as a unit that then can be attached or embedded
within an eyewear lens and connected to the appropriate power
source. As used herein a low index material can be, by way of
example only, low index acrylics, ethyl acrylate, propyl methyl
acrylate, or any combination thereof.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings illustrate certain aspects of some of the
embodiments of the present invention, and should not be used to
limit or define the invention. Together with the written
description the drawings serve to explain certain principles of the
invention.
FIG. 1a is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 1b is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 1c is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 1d is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 1e is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 2a is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 2b is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 2c is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 2d is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 2e is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 2f is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 2g is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 3a is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 3b is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 3c is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 3d is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 3e is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 3f is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 3g is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 4a is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 4b is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 4c is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 4d is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 4e is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 4f is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 4g is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 4h is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 5a is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 5b is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 5c is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 6a is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 6b is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 6c is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 6d is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a depiction of one possible
embodiment of the invention as disclosed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
In most, but not all, embodiments taught herein the see-through
near eye optical module is self-contained. In all embodiments
disclosed herein the see-through near eye display optical module
can comprise a see-through near eye display that is in optical
alignment/optical communication with a micro-lens array. The
micro-lens array can be that of a static micro-lens array or a
switchable micro-lens array that can switch or tune its optical
power between two optical powers; one of which can be plano. The
see-through near eye optical module can comprise a see-through near
eye display, a spacer (which can be that of air, a gas or a
material that can be by way of example only a low index material),
an optional light shield array, a micro-lens array, an optional
spherical lens, optional cylindrical lens, or an optional
sphero-cylinder lens. The sphero-cylindrical lens or cylindrical
lens can be set for the correct astigmatic axis of the wear's
astigmatism. The outside of the see-through near eye optical module
can be coated with a multilayer coating to provide a hermetically
sealed see-through near eye display optical module that is water
resistant, sweat resistant and moisture resistant. The front side
surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be coated
with, by way of example only, a scratch resistant coating, UV
coating, anti-reflection coating or any combination thereof. The
backside surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be,
by way of example, coated with a blue light filter, a selective
high energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any combination
thereof. The eyewear frame can comprise electronics enabling the
see-through near eye optical module(s). Such electronic enablement
can be used for powering the electronic see-through near eye
display and the micro-lens array (when such a micro-lens array is
an electronic switchable or tunable micro-lens array). When the
micro-lens array is static electronic enablement is not required.
The eyewear frame can be attached to peripheral electronics
enabling the near eye optical combiner(s).
In a preferred embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 1a, 1b, 1c), the device
or system can be that of an eyewear lens having been edged for an
eyeglass frame. The eyewear lens can then be notched at the
appropriate location and have an open notch of a proper size and
shape. A see-through near eye optical module can then be positioned
within the open notch and attached, by way of example only,
adhesively bonded or pressure mounted in place. An electrical
connector (by way of example only, that of a flex cable) can be
connected from the see-through near eye optical module to that of
the eyewear frame where enabling electronic components including
electrical power can be accessed. Prior to positioning the
see-through near eye optical module into place, the front side
surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be coated
with, by way of example only, a scratch resistant coating, UV
coating, anti-reflection coating or any combination thereof. The
backside surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be,
by way of example, coated with a blue light filter, a selective
high energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any combination
thereof.
When an open notch is utilized, the see-through near eye display
may need to utilize or incorporate an optical lens or system that
is located posterior to the micro-lens array of the see-through
near eye display. This optical lens or optical system provides the
appropriate refractive power for the eye of the wearer (should such
a refractive optical power be needed) to allow for the distance
real world image to be seen clearly by the eye of the wearer. Such
an optical lens or optical system can be incorporated as part of
the see-through near eye optical module or can be located
separately behind (closest to the eye of the wearer) the
see-through near eye optical module. The appropriate refractive
optical power can include, by way of example only, all required
optical powers (including no optical power/plano), spherical
optical power (minus or plus), cylindrical optical power (minus or
plus), and/or prismatic optical power. The optical power can
correct for astigmatic refractive power needs at the proper
astigmatic axis. In another embodiment, the see-through near eye
optical module can be attached to the eyewear frame eye rim or part
of the eyewear frame eye rim. As with other embodiments of shown in
FIG. 1, the appropriate refractive optical power (if required) for
the eye of a wearer to see the distance real world image clearly
through the see-through near eye optical module can be added behind
the see-through near eye optical module, or incorporated posterior
to the micro-lens array as part of the see-through near eye optical
module. The appropriate refractive optical power can include, by
way of example only, all required optical powers (including no
optical power/plano), spherical optical power (minus or plus),
cylindrical optical power (minus or plus), and/or prismatic optical
power. The optical power can correct for astigmatic refractive
power needs at the proper astigmatic axis.
The see-through near eye optical module can be moved along the
interior of the eyewear rim to account for lining up with the
wearer/user's intra pupillary distance (IPD). As in the embodiments
depicted in FIG. 1, the edged lens can be notched at the
appropriate location around the periphery of the edged lens. The
see-through near eye optical module can then be inserted within the
open notch. The see-through near eye optical module can be attached
to the eyewear lens, by way of example only, adhesively or pressure
mounted. The electrical connector, by way of example only, can be
that of a flex cable. The flex cable can be connected from the
see-through near eye optical module to that of the eyewear frame
where enabling electronic components including access to electrical
power can be accessed. In certain embodiments, an end of the
electrical connector has male pins that connect to a female
electrical connector located in or on the eyewear frame. In other
embodiments, an end of the electrical connector has a female
connection that connects to a male electrical connector located in
or on the eyewear frame.
The see-through near eye display can be located such that the front
of the see-through near eye optical module is forward relative to
the front surface of the eyewear lens on the side of the notch. The
see-through near eye optical module can be located such that the
front of the see-through near eye display is conformal with the
front surface of the eyewear lens on the side of notch. The
see-through near eye optical module can be located such that the
front of the see-through near eye optical module is beneath the
front surface of the eyewear lens on the side of the notch.
In another embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 2c), the device
or system to takes an edged eyewear lens and places a hole through
the eyewear lens for positioning a see-through near eye optical
module. The hole, in aspects, needs to be of the size for housing
the see-through near eye optical module. The hole, in aspects,
needs to be located such to align the see-through near eye optical
module at or above the upper edge of a pupil(s) of the eye(s) of a
wearer/user. In certain cases, the hole needs to further locate the
see-through near eye optical module relative to the intra-pupillary
distance of the wearer. In other cases where the see-through near
eye optical module is quite wide horizontally given that the
optical combiner is that of a see-through near eye display optical
combiner there is freedom from that of a specific location of the
wearer/user's IPD. The see-through near eye optical module can be
inserted within the hole and either adhesively bonded or pressure
mounted into place. Prior to positioning the see-through near eye
optical module into place, the front side surface of the
see-through near eye optical module can be coated with, by way of
example only, a scratch resistant coating, UV coating,
anti-reflection coating or any combination thereof. The backside
surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be, by way
of example, coated with a blue light filter, a selective high
energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any combination
thereof.
The see-through near eye display can be located such that the front
of the see-through near eye optical module is forward relative to
the front surface of the eyewear lens on the side of the hole. The
see-through near eye optical module can be located such that the
front of the see-through near eye display is conformal with the
front surface of the eyewear lens on the side of hole. The
see-through near eye optical module can be located such that the
front of the see-through near eye optical module is beneath the
front surface of the eyewear lens on the side of the hole.
In these kinds of embodiments, the see-through near eye optical
module can be attached to the eyewear lens, by way of example only,
adhesively or pressure mounted. The electrical connector, by way of
example only, can be that of a flex cable. The flex cable can be
connected from the see-through near eye optical module to that of
the eyewear frame where enabling electronic components including
access to electrical power can be housed. Also, the appropriate
refractive optical power (if required) for the eye of a wearer to
see the distance real world image clearly through the see-through
near eye optical module can be added behind the see-through near
eye optical module, or incorporated posterior to the micro-lens
array as part of the see-through near eye optical module. The
appropriate refractive optical power can include, by way of example
only, all required optical powers (including no optical
power/plano), spherical optical power (minus or plus), cylindrical
optical power (minus or plus), and/or prismatic optical power. The
optical power can correct for astigmatic refractive power needs at
the proper astigmatic axis. The front side surface of the
see-through near eye optical module can be coated with, by way of
example only, a scratch resistant coating, UV coating,
anti-reflection coating, or any combination thereof. The backside
surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be, by way
of example, coated with a blue light filter, a selective high
energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any combination thereof.
Prior to positioning the see-through near eye optical module into
place, the front side surface of the see-through near eye optical
module can be coated with, by way of example only, a scratch
resistant coating, UV coating, anti-reflection coating, or any
combination thereof. The backside surface of the see-through near
eye optical module can be, by way of example, coated with a blue
light filter, a selective high energy blue light filter, a UV
filter, or any combination thereof.
In yet another embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 3a, and 3b), a groove
having a bottom and sides can be fabricated within the eyewear
lens. Such a groove can be fabricated, by way of example only, by
way of a single point diamond turning mill. Such a diamond turning
mill can fabricate the required groove curvature with a polished
surface of the groove. The groove can be a recess in the front
surface of the eyewear lens whereby the groove has sides on 3 out
of the 4 sides. A see-through near eye display optical module and
its electrical connector can be located within such a groove. The
groove can originate at any point desired and located 360 degrees
around the periphery of an edged or finished eyewear lens.
The lens surface curvature at the floor of the groove and the
thickness of the lens from the bottom of the groove to the back of
the lens can provide the optical power needed for the eye of the
wearer to see a real world image clearly through the see-through
near eye optical module. In certain embodiments the floor of the
groove has a curvature within 20% of the curvature of the front
base surface curvature of the eyewear lens prior to the groove
being placed therein. The lens surface curvature at the floor of
the groove and the thickness of the lens from the bottom of the
groove to the back of the lens can provide the optical power needed
for the eye of the wearer to see a real world image clearly through
the see-through near eye display. In certain embodiments the floor
of the groove has a curvature within 20% of the curvature of the
front surface of the eyewear lens prior to the groove being placed
therein. In other embodiments the floor of the groove has a
curvature that equals the front surface base curvature of the
eyewear lens. The appropriate refractive optical power can include,
by way of example only, all required optical powers (including no
optical power/plano), spherical optical power (minus or plus),
cylindrical optical power (minus or plus), and/or prismatic optical
power. The optical power can correct for astigmatic refractive
power needs at the proper astigmatic axis. The overall optical
power measured through the see-through near eye optical module and
the eyewear lens located directly behind the see-through near eye
optical module is, in aspects, within 20% of the same optical power
as if it was measured through the eyewear lens prior to the
see-through near eye optical module being embedded or attached. The
overall optical power measured through the groove to the back of
the lens, without the see-through near eye optical module in place,
is, in aspects, within 20% of the same optical power as if it was
measured through the eyewear lens prior to the see-through near eye
optical module being embedded or attached. The overall optical
power measured through the see-through near eye optical module and
the eyewear lens located directly behind the see-through near eye
optical module is, in aspects, within 20% of the same optical power
as if it was measured through the eyewear lens prior to the
see-through near eye optical module being embedded or attached. The
overall optical power measured through the groove to the back of
the lens, without the see-through near eye optical module in place,
is, in aspects, within 20% of the same optical power as if it was
measured through the eyewear lens prior to the see-through near eye
optical module being embedded or attached. The overall optical
power measured through the see-through near eye optical module and
the eyewear lens located directly behind the see-through near eye
optical module is, in aspects, within 10% of the same optical power
as if it was measured through the eyewear lens prior to the
see-through near eye optical module being embedded or attached. The
overall optical power measured through the groove to the back of
the lens, without the see-through near eye optical module in place,
is, in aspects, within 10% of the same optical power as if it was
measured through the eyewear lens prior to the see-through near eye
optical module being embedded or attached.
The see-through near eye optical module can be attached to the
eyewear lens, by way of example only, adhesively or pressure
mounted. The adhesive can be a low index optical quality
transparent adhesive. Such attachment can be, by way of example
only, to the sides of the groove, bottom of the groove, and/or a
side of the lens. As shown in embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the
see-through near eye display can be located such that the front of
the see-through near eye optical module is forward relative to the
front surface of the eyewear lens on either side of the groove. As
shown in embodiment depicted by FIG. 3, the see-through near eye
optical module can be located such that the front of the
see-through near eye display is conformal with the front surface of
the eyewear lens on either side of the groove. When a see-through
near eye optical module is positioned within a groove a low index
material can be applied therebetween the see-through near eye
optical module and the floor of the groove. The electrical
connector, by way of example only, can be that of a flex cable. The
flex cable can be connected from the see-through near eye optical
module to that of the eyewear frame where enabling electronic
components including electrical power can be accessed. In certain
embodiments, an end of the electrical connector has male pins that
connect to a female electrical connector located in or on the
eyewear frame. In other embodiments, an end of the electrical
connector has a female connection that connects to a male
electrical connector located in or on the eyewear frame. Prior to
positioning the see-through near eye optical module into place, the
front side surface of the see-through near eye optical module can
be coated with, by way of example only, a scratch resistant
coating, UV coating, anti-reflection coating, or any combination
thereof. The backside surface of the see-through near eye optical
module can be, by way of example, coated with a blue light filter,
a selective high energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any
combination thereof.
In another embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d, and 4e),
the device or system is that of an eyewear frame, comprising an
eyewear frame front having two eyewear rims and a bridge, whereby
each of the eyewear rims houses a spectacle lens, whereby one of
the eyewear rims comprises an upper section and a lower section and
whereby the upper section houses a see-through near eye optical
module and the lower section houses a spectacle lens. The eyewear
of frame front can comprise two rims and both two rims comprise an
upper section and a lower section. The upper section can be
adjustable for the interpupillary distance of the user/wearer. The
upper section can be held in place, by way of example only, with a
supporting strap or member attached to the eyewear frame. The
supporting strap or member can be made of by way of example only, a
clear plastic, translucent plastic, nylon, metal, and/or elastic
material. Alternatively, with embodiments in FIG. 4, the upper and
lower sections can be joined by an index matching adhesive. The
index matching optical quality transparent adhesive can be within
0.03 units of index of refraction of the upper section's index of
refraction and the lower section's index of refraction. The index
matching adhesive can be within the middle of index of refraction
difference between that of the upper section's index of refraction
and the lower section's index of refraction.
The upper section can comprise a see-through near eye optical
module that comprises the user/wearer's distance spectacle
prescription located behind the micro-lens array closer to the eye
of the wearer. The upper section can provide the appropriate
refractive optical power (if required) for the eye of a wearer to
see the distance real world image clearly through the see-through
near eye optical module. This refractive optical power can be added
behind the see-through near eye optical module, or incorporated
posterior to the micro-lens array as part of the see-through near
eye optical module. The appropriate refractive optical power can
include, by way of example only, all required optical powers
(including no optical power/plano), spherical optical power (minus
or plus), cylindrical optical power (minus or plus), and/or
prismatic optical power. The optical power can correct for
astigmatic refractive power needs at the proper astigmatic axis.
Prior to positioning the see-through near eye optical module into
place, the front side surface of the see-through near eye optical
module can be coated with, by way of example only, a scratch
resistant coating, UV coating, anti-reflection coating, or any
combination thereof. The backside surface of the see-through near
eye optical module can be, by way of example, coated with a blue
light filter, a selective high energy blue light filter, a UV
filter, or any combination thereof.
The upper section can be magnetically attached to a track located
on an upper eyewear front's eyewear rim. The upper section can be
pressure attached to a track located on an upper eyewear front's
eyewear rim. The upper section can be pressure attached to the
upper eyewear front's eyewear rim. The upper section can be
adhesively attached to the upper eyewear front's eyewear rim. The
upper section can be electrically connected to enabling electronic
components located within the eyewear frame or attached to the
eyewear frame which can include access to electrical power.
The lower section can be that of a section of an eyewear lens. The
lower section can be that of the appropriate optical power for the
eye of the wearer, including no optical power. The lower section
can include, by way of example only, a progressive addition region,
bifocal region, trifocal region, distance power region.
In another embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 5a, and 5b), the device or
system can be that of an eyewear lens comprising a front curve,
back curve and thickness, wherein the eyewear lens further
comprises a see-through near eye optical module, wherein the
see-through near eye optical module is embedded within the eyewear
lens and wherein the see-through near eye optical module has a
front surface that is conformal with that of the eyewear lens front
surface. The eyewear lens can have a recess or cavity within the
front surface of the eyewear lens, wherein the recess houses the
see-through near eye optical module. In this and related
embodiments, the see-through near eye optical module can have no
optical power that refracts the real-world image as seen by the eye
of a wearer. The see-through near eye optical module can have a
curvature of the see-through near eye optical module such that its
back-surface curvature equals its front surface curvature. The
recess or cavity can have an inside bottom curvature and lens
thickness, located beneath this recess or cavity, that permits the
portion of the eyewear lens located directly under the see-through
near eye optical module to provide the same optical power as the
distance portion of the eyewear lens. The recess or cavity within
the front surface of the eyewear lens may be surrounded with sides
around the entire periphery of the recess or cavity. Prior to
positioning the see-through near eye optical module into place, the
front side surface of the see-through near eye optical module can
be coated with, by way of example only, a scratch resistant
coating, UV coating, anti-reflection coating, or any combination
thereof. The backside surface of the see-through near eye optical
module can be, by way of example, coated with a blue light filter,
a selective high energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any
combination thereof.
The optical power of the lens portion measured directly through the
recess or cavity and the back of the lens without the see-through
near eye optical module present can be of the appropriate
refractive optical power (if required) for the eye of a wearer to
see the distance real world image clearly through the see-through
near eye optical module when the see-through near eye optical
module is present. This appropriate refractive optical power can
include, by way of example only, all required optical powers
(including no optical power/plano), spherical optical power (minus
or plus), cylindrical optical power (minus or plus), and/or
prismatic optical power. The optical power can correct for
astigmatic refractive power needs at the proper astigmatic
axis.
The recess or cavity can have an inside bottom curvature opposite
and close to the back curvature of the see-through near eye optical
module that is within 10% of that of the front surface curvature of
the eyewear lens that was replaced by the recess or cavity. In this
and related embodiments, the overall optical power measured through
the see-through near eye optical module and the eyewear lens
located directly behind the see-through near eye optical module is,
in aspects, within 20% of the same optical power as the distance
portion of the eyewear lens.
In this and related embodiments, the overall optical power measured
through the see-through near eye optical module and the eyewear
lens located directly behind the see-through near eye optical
module is, in aspects, within 20% of the same optical power as if
it was measured through the eyewear lens prior to the see-through
near eye optical module being embedded or attached. The overall
optical power measured through the recess or cavity to the back of
the lens, without the see-through near eye optical module in place,
is, in aspects, within 20% of the same optical power as if it was
measured through the eyewear lens prior to the see-through near eye
optical module being embedded or attached.
In certain embodiments, when the front surface curvature of the
see-through near eye optical module does not equal its back surface
curvature, the recess surface curvature closest to the back of the
see-through near eye optical module (floor of the recess or cavity)
can be altered to allow for the overall optical power measured
through the see-through near eye optical module and the eyewear
lens directly behind to be the desired optical power for the eye of
the wearer when looking at far. In certain embodiments, when the
front surface curvature of the see-through near eye optical module
does not equal its back surface curvature, the recess surface
curvature closest to the back of the see-through near eye optical
module can be altered to allow for the overall optical power
measured through the see-through near eye optical module and the
eyewear lens directly behind to be the desired optical power for
the eye of the wearer to clearly see the real image and/or the
virtual image.
In a certain embodiment, the ophthalmic lens portion that is
closest to the back side of see-through near eye optical module is
curved or shaped within 20% of the front surface base curvature of
the ophthalmic lens to which the see-through near eye optical
module has been positioned or has replaced, and wherein the
backside size of the see-through near eye optical module is smaller
in surface area compared to the surface area of the front surface
of the ophthalmic lens. In a certain embodiment, the ophthalmic
lens portion that is closest to the back side of see-through near
eye optical module is curved or shaped within 20% of the front
surface curvature of the ophthalmic lens to which the see-through
near eye optical module has been positioned or has replaced, and
wherein the backside size of the see-through near eye optical
module is smaller in surface area compared to the surface area of
the front surface of the ophthalmic lens.
The inside bottom surface of the recess or cavity's surface
curvature can be that of a finished curvature. The inside bottom
recess curvature can be polished. By way of example only, a single
point diamond turning mill can fabricate such a recess or cavity to
the desired curvature and thickness, while also providing for a
finished polished surface curvature at the bottom surface of the
recess or cavity. In certain embodiments, the see-through near eye
optical module can be embedded within the front surface of the
eyewear lens in such a way that there is an air gap between the
back of the see-through near eye optical module and the inside
bottom of the recess or cavity of the eyewear lens. In another
embodiment, instead of an air gap, a low index material can be
used. Such a low index mater can be, by way of example only, one of
low index acrylics, ethyl acrylate, and/or propyl methyl
acrylate.
An electrical connector can connect the see-through near eye
optical module to the appropriate enabling electronic components
including that of electrical power. The electrical connector, by
way of example only, can be that of a flex cable. The flex cable
can be connected from the see-through near eye optical module to
that of the eyewear frame. In certain embodiments, an end of the
electrical connector has male pins that connect to a female
electrical connector located in or on the eyewear frame. In other
embodiments, an end of the electrical connector has a female
connection that connects to a male electrical connector located in
or on the eyewear frame.
In still another embodiment (see, e.g., FIG. 5), the inside bottom
curvature of recess or cavity can be comprised of a micro-lens
array being made of a low index material (being a different
refractive index than that of the index of the spectacle lens)
having its micro-lenses aligned with the pixels or pixel patches of
the see-through near eye display which is distance separated having
an air gap or spacer material therebetween. In such an embodiment
the see-though near eye optical module is assembled and properly
aligned within the eyewear lens and becomes integrated with the
eyewear lens.
With each of the above embodiments in which the see-through near
eye optical module is embedded within the eyewear lens, the eyewear
lens in which it is embedded can be made of any ophthalmic grade
lens material, by way of example only, CR 39, Polycarbonate,
Trivex, 1.67 high index, and/or 1.72 high index. Holes ranging in
diameter from 2 microns to less than a micron can optionally be
added within the eyewear lens material thickness located directly
beneath the see-through near eye optical module, that being the
recess surface and the back surface of the lens. These holes allow
air or gas to exit when pressing the optical combiner module into
the recess or cavity. The holes can be fabricated by way of a
laser, mechanical drill, and/or chemical etching. In some cases, an
optical quality transparent adhesive material can be utilized to
adhere the see-through near eye display optical material within the
formed front surface recess. Such an adhesive material can be of an
index that is halfway or near halfway between that of the index of
the outer coating of the see-through near eye optical module and
the eyewear lens. Such an adhesive material can be of a refractive
index that is within 0.03 units of refraction of the index of the
outer coating of the see-through near eye optical module and/or the
eyewear lens. In related embodiments, the front surface of the
see-through near eye optical module can be conformal to the front
surface curvature of the spectacle lens. The front surface of the
see-through near eye optical module can be located slightly above
the front surface curvature of the spectacle lens. The front
surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be located
slightly below the front curvature of the spectacle lens. The
entire front surface of the spectacle lens can comprise an
anti-refection coating. In certain embodiments the front surface of
the see-through near eye display optical module comprises an
anti-reflection coating. Prior to positioning the see-through near
eye optical module into place, the front side surface of the
see-through near eye optical module can be coated with, by way of
example only, a scratch resistant coating, UV coating,
anti-reflection coating, or any combination thereof. The backside
surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be, by way
of example, coated with a blue light filter, a selective high
energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any combination
thereof.
In certain embodiments the recess or cavity acts as the sides and
bottom of the see-through near eye optical module and the
see-through near eye display sits within the top of the recess or
cavity with its front surface conformal to the front surface
curvature of the eyewear lens. In other embodiments the recess or
cavity houses a self-contained near eye optical module. The front
surface of the see-through near eye display optical module can be
under the front surface of the eyewear lens. The front surface of
the see-through near eye optical module can be of an equal or
within 20% of the curvature to that of the front curvature of the
eyewear lens where it is embedded. The front surface of the
see-through near eye optical module can be adjacent to the front
surface of the eyewear lens.
With regards to embodiments in FIG. 5, the see-through near eye
optical module can be housed at least partially within the eyewear
lens section directly beneath the see-through near eye optical
module and the eyewear lens provides the appropriate optical power
to correct, if needed, the wearer's distance optical power needs.
In aspects, a connecting, by way of example only, an electronic
flex cable or flexible printed circuit attaches to an edge of the
optical combiner and such a flex cable or flex circuit can be
located, by way of example only, on the surface of the lens, in the
surface of the lens, or under the surface of the lens. If located
within a recessed portion of the lens, by way of example only, a
single point diamond turning mill can fabricate this additional
recess as an additional step before, during or after fabricating
the recess of cavity in the lens surface that houses the
see-through near eye optical module. In aspects, the flex cable or
print circuit can connect to enabling electrical power that is
provided through the eyewear that houses the eyewear lens. Such
electrical power can be that of a rechargeable battery, or other
power source that is located within the eyewear frame or connected
to the eyewear frame.
In another embodiment (see, e.g., FIGS. 6a, 6b, 6c, 6d, 6e) whereby
the see-through near eye optical module is fabricated within an
ophthalmic lens, a thin layer of optical resin (in aspects, less
than 0.5 mm thick) may be placed within a concave mold that forms
the front convex surface of the eyewear lens. In certain cases,
only the front surface of the see-through near eye optical module
is coated to form a tacky surface and not the entire concave mold
surface. Separately the see-through near eye optical module may be
coated with a low index optical coating and such coating may be
cured. The coating can be cured with one or more of heat or light,
in aspects. The optical resin that was provided within the concave
mold is first cured to make it tacky, in aspects. Following this,
in aspects, the see-through near eye optical module (coated with a
low index material) may be placed with its front closest to the
concave mold surface in an appropriate location and positioned
against the concave mold's surface (which ultimately will make the
front convex surface of the eyewear lens). Given the tacky optical
material of the front concave mold surface, the see-through near
eye optical module once pressed against such tacky surface becomes
attached thereto. Prior to positioning the see-through near eye
optical module into place, the front side surface of the
see-through near eye optical module can be coated with, by way of
example only, a scratch resistant coating, UV coating,
anti-reflection coating, or any combination thereof. The backside
surface of the see-through near eye optical module can be, by way
of example, coated with a blue light filter, a selective high
energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any combination thereof.
Following attaching the see-through near eye optical module to the
front concave mold surface, in aspects, a rear mold and gasket or
tape is assembled to the front mold and additional optical resin is
filled within the mold assembly and is cured. The curing can be, by
way of example only, one or more of light cured, heat cured, or
light and heat cured. The see-through near eye optical module is
thus fixed and housed within the eyewear lens such that the
see-through near eye optical module is positioned with the
ophthalmic lens such that thickness and curvature of the back of
the see-through near eye optical module provides the appropriate
optical power for the eyewear lens such to allow for a wearer of
the see-through near eye optical module to see the real world image
clearly when looking through the see-through near eye optical
module. Prior to positioning the see-through near eye optical
module into place, the front side surface of the see-through near
eye optical module can be coated with, by way of example only, a
scratch resistant coating, UV coating, anti-reflection coating, or
any combination thereof. The backside surface of the see-through
near eye optical module can be, by way of example, coated with a
blue light filter, a selective high energy blue light filter, a UV
filter, or any combination thereof.
The mold assembly can make that of a semi-finished lens blank with
the see-through near eye optical module located just below the
front surface of the semi-finished lens blank. The mold assembly
can make that of a semi-finished blank with the see-through near
eye optical module located conformal with the front surface of the
semi-finished lens blank. The mold assembly can make that of a
finished lens blank with the see-through near eye optical module
located just below the front surface of the finished lens blank.
The mold assembly can make that of a finished lens blank with the
see-through near eye optical module located conformal with the
front surface of the finished lens blank.
In certain embodiments an electronic connector or cable can be
attached to the see-through near eye optical module prior to
positioning the see-through near eye optical module within the mold
assembly, by way of example only, a flex cable can be positioned
against the front surface of the mold. Such a flex cable can then
be located and directed from the see-through near eye display to a
peripheral edge of the front concave mold assembly that forms the
front surface of the eyewear lens. In certain embodiments, an end
of the electrical connector has male pins that connect to a female
electrical connector located in or on the eyewear frame. In other
embodiments, an end of the electrical connector has a female
connection that connects to a male electrical connector located in
or on the eyewear frame.
In another embodiment, the see-through near eye optical module is
fabricated within an ophthalmic lens, and a layer of optical resin
(in aspects, less than 0.5 mm thick) is placed within a concave
mold that forms the front convex surface of the eyewear lens.
Separately the see-through near eye optical module is coated with a
low index optical coating and such coating is cured. The coating
can be cured with one or more of heat or light or both. The optical
resin that was provided within the concave mold is first cured to
make it tacky. Following this the see-through near eye optical
module (coated with a low index material) is placed with its front
closest to the concave mold surface in an appropriate location and
positioned against the concave mold's surface (which ultimately
will make the front convex surface of the eyewear lens). Given the
tacky optical material of the front concave mold surface, the
see-through near eye optical module once pressed against such tacky
surface becomes attached thereto. Following this the rear surface
thickness and rear curvature (or lack thereof) is formed by way of
3D printing, in aspects, using an optical quality material. Prior
to positioning the see-through near eye optical module into place,
the front side surface of the see-through near eye optical module
can be coated with, by way of example only, a scratch resistant
coating, UV coating, anti-reflection coating, or any combination
thereof. The backside surface of the see-through near eye optical
module can be, by way of example, coated with a blue light filter,
a selective high energy blue light filter, a UV filter, or any
combination thereof.
The mold assembly can make that of a semi-finished lens blank with
the see-through near eye optical module located just below the
front surface of the semi-finished lens blank. The mold assembly
can make that of a semi-finished blank with the see-through near
eye optical module located conformal with the front surface of the
semi-finished lens blank. The mold assembly can make that of a
finished lens blank with the see-through near eye optical module
located just below the front surface of the finished lens blank.
The mold assembly can make that of a finished lens blank with the
see-through near eye optical module located conformal with the
front surface of the finished lens blank.
In certain embodiments an electronic connector or cable can be
attached to the see-through near eye optical module prior to
positioning the see-through near eye optical module within the mold
assembly, by way of example only, a flex cable can be positioned
against the front surface of the mold. Such a flex cable can then
be located and directed from the see-through near eye display to a
peripheral edge of the front concave mold assembly that forms the
front surface of the eyewear lens. In certain embodiments, an end
of the electrical connector has male pins that connect to a female
electrical connector located in or on the eyewear frame. In other
embodiments, an end of the electrical connector has a female
connection that connects to a male electrical connector located in
or on the eyewear frame.
Example Fabrication Steps of Embodiments
The steps of fabricating eyewear housing the see-through near eye
display optical module(s) and eyewear lens(es).
Embodiment #1
a. Edge spectacle lens(es) to the eye rim(s) shape of the desired
eyewear frame
b. Machine notch into the edged spectacle lens(es) accounting for
the proper alignment of the wearer's interpupillary distance and
positioning of the see-through near eye optical module relative to
the wearer's eye(s) once mounted within the eyewear
c. Insert and pressure mount and/or adhesively bond the see-through
near eye optical module(s) within notch of the edged spectacle
lens(es)
d. Insert edged spectacle lens(es) having notch with the
see-through near eye optical modules(s) into the appropriate
eyewear rim
e. (steps c and d can be reversed and/or are interchangeable and
the electrical connection to the see-through near eye optical
module(s) can be accomplished at any point during the fabrication
process)
The steps of fabricating eyewear housing see-through near eye
optical module(s) and eyewear lens(es).
Embodiment #2
a. Edge spectacle lens(es) to the eye rim(s) shape of the desired
eyewear frame
b. Machine hole into edged spectacle lens(es) accounting for the
proper alignment of the wearer's interpupillary distance and
positioning of the see-through near eye optical module(s) relative
to the eye(s) of the wearer
c. Insert and pressure mount and/or adhesively bond the see-through
near eye optical module(s) within hole of edged spectacle
lens(es)
d. Insert edged spectacle lens(es) having hole with the see-through
near eye optical modules(s) into the appropriate eyewear rim
e. (steps c and d can be reversed and/or are interchangeable and
the electrical connection to the see-through near eye optical
module(s) can be accomplished at any point during the fabrication
process)
The steps of fabricating eyewear housing the see-through near eye
display optical module(s) and eyewear lens(es).
Embodiments #3
a. Edge spectacle lens(es) to the eye rim(s) shape of the desired
eyewear frame
b. Machine groove into the edged spectacle lens(es) accounting for
the proper alignment of the wearer's interpupillary distance and
positioning of the see-through near eye optical module relative to
the wearer's eye(s) once mounted within the eyewear
c. Insert and pressure mount and/or adhesively bond the see-through
near eye optical module(s) within groove of the edged spectacle
lens(es)
d. Insert edged spectacle lens(es) having groove with the
see-through near eye optical modules(s) into the appropriate
eyewear rim
e. (steps c and d can be reversed and/or are interchangeable and
the electrical connection to the see-through near eye optical
module(s) can be accomplished at any point during the fabrication
process)
The steps of fabricating eyewear housing see-through near eye
optical module(s) and eyewear lens(es).
Embodiment #4
a. Edge or shape the outer peripheral area of the see-through near
eye optical combiner(s) for fitting in the upper section(s) of the
desired eyewear frame front's eyewear rim(s)
b. Mount the shaped see-through near eye display optical module(s)
having the appropriate distance optical correction and
interpupillary distance for the wearer within the upper section of
the eyewear frame front rim(s)
c. Edge the spectacle lens(es) and mount in the lower section of
the eyewear frame front rim(s)
d. Bond the lower edge of the upper section(s) to the upper edge of
the lower section(s) "or" mount the upper section within the upper
eyewear rim and the lower section within the lower eyewear rim
(whereby there can be an optional strap or other connection in
between). e. (the electrical connection to the see-through near eye
optical module(s) can be accomplished at any point during the
fabrication process)
The steps of fabricating eyewear housing see-through near eye
optical module(s) within eyewear lens(es).
Embodiment #5
a. Edge the eyewear lens for the shape of the eyewear frame
b. Locate where a recess or cavity should be formed within the
front surface of the eyewear lens relative to the wearer/user's
pupils. In most, but not all cases, the location would be at or
above the upper edge of the wearer/user's eye pupil. It/they would
also be further aligned based upon the wearer/user's
inter-pupillary distance. c. Fabricate the recess or cavity using,
by way of example only, a single point diamond turning mill. Such a
recess or cavity can be formed within the front surface of the
eyewear lens having the desired finished/polished curvature of the
bottom inside surface of the recess or cavity. d. Maintain a
thickness between the bottom of the inside side surface of the
recess or cavity and the back surface curvature of the eyewear lens
of, in aspects, 0.25 mm of lens thickness or greater. Such a recess
or cavity should have a bottom inside surface curvature that
permits the distance power of the eyewear lens as measured at that
point to be of the same optical power as that of the peripheral
surrounding distance optical power of the eyewear lens. Said
another way the overall optical power measured through the
see-through near eye optical module and the eyewear lens thickness
directly beneath the see-through near eye optical module should be
within 10% of the optical power measured in the same location of
the eyewear lens prior to the recess or cavity being fabricated. In
a preferred case such optical power would be equal to that of the
optical power of the eyewear lens prior to the recess or cavity
being fabricated. e. Optionally fabricate micro-holes within the
bottom of the cavity and through the back surface of the lens
thickness behind the cavity or a certain thickness thereof. f.
Mount the see-through near eye optical combiner within the recess
or cavity while maintaining a gap (for, for example, air, gas,
material spacer or a low index adhesive) under the bottom of the
see-through near eye optical module and the bottom curvature of the
inside surface of the recess or cavity. The mounting can be done,
by way of example only, with the use of a low index adhesive or a
pressure mount in addition to the low index adhesive. Keep the
placement of the front surface of the optical combiner conformal to
that of the front surface of the eyewear lens. g. Optionally
provide an anti-reflection coating and/or hard scratch resistant
coating over the front surface of the near eye display and the
adjacent front surface of the eyewear lens such to provide a
conformal curve. h. Optionally provide a surface cast resin layer
over the front surface of the near eye display and the adjacent
front surface of the eyewear lens such to provide a conformal
curve. i. (The electrical connection to the see-through near eye
optical module(s) can be accomplished at any point during the
fabrication process) j. Optionally fabricate a groove or recess in
the front surface of the edged eyewear lens from a peripheral
portion of the edge lens to the see-through near eye optical module
for an electrical connector (by way of example only) a flex cable
for providing electrical power to the see-through near eye optical
module to fit within.
The steps of fabricating eyewear housing see-through near eye
optical module(s) within eyewear lens(es).
Embodiment #6
a. Coat see-through near eye optical module with a low index
coating and cure
b. Select front concave curve mold of the appropriate curvature
that will make the front surface curvature of the eyewear lens
c. Fill with a layer (in aspects, less than 0.50 mm) of optical
quality resin (such resins are known in the art)
d. Cure resin layer to a tacky state
e. Appropriately position and attach see-through near eye optical
module front down adjacent to the concave mold
f. Apply gasket or tape and back mold (that forms the rear surface
of a finished lens or semi-finished lens blank)
g. Fill mold assembly with desired optical quality resin and
cure
h. Demold mold assembly
i. Optionally add optical coating on front and or back surface of
finished lens or semi-finished lens blank
j. Edge and/or surface lens blank locating the see-through near eye
display in the appropriate location relative to the eye(s) of the
wearer
k. Optionally attach electrical connection of the see-through near
eye optical module to the appropriate connection of the eyewear or
vice versa
The steps of fabricating eyewear housing see-through near eye
optical module(s) within eyewear lens(es).
Embodiment #7
a. Coat see-through near eye optical module with a low index
coating and cure
b. Select front concave curve mold of the appropriate curvature
that will make the front surface curvature of the eyewear lens
c. Fill with a layer (in aspects, less than 0.50 mm) of optical
quality resin (such resins are known in the art)
d. Cure resin layer to a tacky state
e. Appropriately position and attach see-through near eye optical
module front down adjacent to the concave mold
f. Utilizing, in aspects, 3D printing to print the remainder of the
finished lens or semi-finished lens blank around and/or over the
see-through near eye optical module
g. Demold front mold
h. Optionally add optical coating on front and/or back surface of
finished lens or semi-finished lens blank
i. Edge and/or surface lens blank locating the see-through near eye
display in the appropriate location relative to the eye(s) of the
wearer
j. Optionally attach electrical connection of the see-through near
eye optical module to the appropriate connection of the eyewear or
vice versa.
The present invention has been described with reference to
particular embodiments having various features. In light of the
disclosure provided above, it will be apparent to those skilled in
the art that various modifications and variations can be made in
the practice of the present invention without departing from the
scope or spirit of the invention. One skilled in the art will
recognize that the disclosed features may be used singularly, in
any combination, or omitted based on the requirements and
specifications of a given application or design. When an embodiment
refers to "comprising" certain features, it is to be understood
that the embodiments can alternatively "consist of" or "consist
essentially of" any one or more of the features. Any of the methods
disclosed herein can be used with any of the compositions disclosed
herein or with any other compositions. Likewise, any of the
disclosed compositions can be used with any of the methods
disclosed herein or with any other methods. Other embodiments of
the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from
consideration of the specification and practice of the
invention.
It is noted in particular that where a range of values is provided
in this specification, each value between the upper and lower
limits of that range, to the tenth of the unit disclosed, is also
specifically disclosed. Any smaller range within the ranges
disclosed or that can be derived from other endpoints disclosed are
also specifically disclosed themselves. The upper and lower limits
of disclosed ranges may independently be included or excluded in
the range as well. The singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include
plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It
is intended that the specification and examples be considered as
exemplary in nature and that variations that do not depart from the
essence of the invention fall within the scope of the invention.
Further, all of the references cited in this disclosure are each
individually incorporated by reference herein in their entireties
and as such are intended to provide an efficient way of
supplementing the enabling disclosure of this invention as well as
provide background detailing the level of ordinary skill in the
art.
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